‘What a Shame’: Viewers Slam Pop Singer Who Paid Tribute to Cher at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction – Here’s Why

Cher’s historic induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame quickly turned controversial when a tribute performance by a pop sensation ignited strong reactions. As the two icons shared the stage, critics didn’t hold back on their opinions.

October 19, 2024, was a memorable moment for pop icon, Cher. The legendary singer who has redefined an entire era, was officially inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Fans were thrilled to see the 78-year-old songstress finally receive the honor in Cleveland, Ohio.

To kick off the ceremony, pop sensation Dua Lipa took the stage to pay tribute to Cher with a performance of her 1998 hit, “Believe.” The high-energy track became a defining moment in Cher’s career, and Dua was tasked with bringing that same magic to the stage.

In a surprise twist, Cher joined Dua transforming the solo performance into a duet that electrified the audience. The two singers, separated by generations but united by their love for music, shared an iconic moment as they belted out the hit song together.

Shortly after the event, Dua shared several snapshots on Instagram, including a photo posing with Cher and actress Zendaya. Alongside the photos, the singer penned a heartfelt caption expressing her deep gratitude.

“An absolute honour to pay tribute last night to THE ICON & LEGEND @cher as she gets inducted into the @rockhall,” she wrote. “Grateful beyond words to have shared the stage with @cher and @theroots to sing “Believe” 🫀🫀🫀 what a dream come true!!! ~PINCH ME PLEASE.”

Despite the performance, not all viewers were thrilled. Some fans took to social media to express disappointment, feeling that Dua’s tribute fell flat compared to the original power and energy of Cher’s version.

Critics argued that while the moment was monumental, Dua’s performance didn’t quite match the larger-than-life presence Cher brings to her performances, leading to mixed reactions online.

“No, your voice is not strong enough at all. Leave it to Cher, she doesn’t need anyone else, she’s still the whole package,” one user shared. Another captured the sentiments of many, “I’d rather just hear Cher do it, Dua does not have a powerful singing voice at all.”

A third user noted, “I am sorry but, they don’t sound good together. Some notes are out of tune.” More comments from critics continued to pour in, with some viewers not holding back. One particularly harsh critic wrote, “What a shame! That was awful.” Another bluntly commented, “Dua Lipa really went flat on so many notes.”

One particular critic added, “Cher rocks still has the vocals, but Due [sic] Lipa is off key and should not be there.” Another viewer summed up their feelings with, “I would have preferred just having Cher singing up on stage.”

But not everyone shared this negative view. Amidst the criticism, plenty of fans found the performance exhilarating. “I’m loving it. The music is fantastic, so many memories,” one user noted. Another added, “Good for Dua Lipa. That’s on point.” A third fan chimed in, “Wow, I love to see these two divas on stage—they are amazing!!!”

Someone else offered a unique perspective, saying, “Wow now I realise[sic] Dua Lipa’s voice resembles Cher with her androgynous manly niche quality. That’s why Dua stands out really shining amongst other typical voice pop stars! In my culture, we really appreciate these kind of voice[sic].”

Cher’s long-awaited induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame finally arrived after 35 years of eligibility. Reflecting on the journey, the iconic singer said, “I have a kind[sic] love-hate relationship [with the Rock Hall].”

Despite the complicated feelings, Cher ultimately expressed her contentment with how things unfolded. “I felt good. I can say that I’m happy that I’m in,” she shared, “If I didn’t [think] it, I wouldn’t be here.”

In her speech, Cher took a powerful moment to speak directly to women across the globe, delivering an empowering message: “The one thing I have never done is I never give up,” she declared. “And I am talking to the women, okay… we have been down and out, but we keep striving, and we keep going, and we are somebody. We are special.”

And even as Cher continues celebrating her milestones, the singer, whose music career spans over five decades, has not been immune to controversy. Recently, she found herself at the center of heated discussion once again, this time over her daring outfit choice at the Victoria’s Secret fashion show.

As she hit the pink carpet, Cher dazzled the public in a daring ensemble featuring a fishnet top under a black blazer, paired with oversized, baggy leather pants in a patchwork of dark tones.

The 78-year-old hitmaker cinched her waist with a statement belt featuring silver rings and studs, adding a rock-chic vibe to her bold look. She completed the ensemble with silver accessories, chunky rings, and matching manicured nails.

Cher’s edgy look from The Attico’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection embraced oversized silhouettes, blending masculine elements with a touch of sportswear, creating a bold and unconventional style.

Cher was accompanied by her boyfriend, Alexander “AE” Edwards, who kept his style classic yet fresh in a black suit and a Vivienne Westwood tie. The couple radiated with warmth and style, showing their closeness in this moment.

However, Cher’s bold fashion choice didn’t sit well with everyone, as netizens quickly took to social media to express mixed reactions. One unimpressed user simply asked, “mama what you wearing [sic],” while another bluntly called it “A mess.”

The criticism didn’t stop there. One disappointed user commented, “Ughhhh… yeah, not the look,” while another, not holding back, stated, “She looks pretty bad.”

Despite social media pointing out Cher’s fashion faux pas, another confessed, “I’ll say it. Cher’s style is horrendous. But I live for every waking moment of this woman!” with a heart emoji at the end.

Supporters rallied behind the music legend too, praising her fearless style. “She looks insane 🔥,” one fan raved, while another declared, “Cher is so iconic and timeless. Bringing 80’s fashion back.”

Despite the online chatter, Cher continued to captivate later that evening with a stunning performance. Changing into glittery oversized cargo pants and a sparkling strapless top cinched with a leather corset, she delivered powerful renditions of her hits “Strong Enough” and “Believe.”

The switch from blonde hair to her signature long black locks added to the transformation, making her performance a standout moment of the night as Victoria’s Secret marked its return after a five-year hiatus.